Modern AV Receivers: Inputs for DVD Component Video, VHS Composite Video, Phonograph, and Compact Cassette Tape Decks

Millions of people today have outdated home theater systems with various legacy components like VCRs, turntables, and tape decks. As technology advances, these devices are often no longer a central part of modern entertainment setups. However, if you still have an appreciation for these treats of yesteryear, you may have noticed that modern AV receivers often lack the necessary inputs to integrate them seamlessly. In this article, we will explore current models of AV receivers that still support the legacy analog connections such as component video, composite video, phonographs, and compact cassette tape decks.

Why AV Receivers May Lack Legacy Inputs

As the world has shifted towards digital entertainment, so have AV receivers. Streaming services, smart TV features, and modern HDMI connectivity are now the norm. DVD players with component and composite video outputs are no longer as common, and most people rarely use VCRs or tape decks. While these devices may no longer be part of most home theaters, their inputs are still highly desirable for those who have kept their legacy systems.

Current Market Overview of AV Receivers with Legacy Inputs

Despite the shift towards digital, the market still offers a fair number of AV receivers that support legacy analog audio/video inputs. Major brands like Sony, Onkyo, Denon, Yamaha, and Marantz provide several models that cater to these vintage enthusiasts. Below are some of the current models that still have the necessary ports for your analog devices.

Sony STR-DH790 7.2-Channel Home Theater AV Receiver

The Sony STR-DH790 is a high-end model with advanced features, but it does not include inputs for component video or composite video. It only offers a phono preamp, making it a less suitable choice for those who need to connect legacy devices.

Onkyo TX-NR5100 7.2-Channel Network AV Receiver

Similar to the Sony model, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 lacks the component and composite video inputs, making it unsuitable for connecting VCRs, turntables, or tape decks.

Denon AVR-S750H 7.2-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver and Yamaha RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver

Both the Denon AVR-S750H and Yamaha RX-V6A are 7.2-channel models with limited analog connectivity. They only offer a phono preamp, and no direct support for component or composite video inputs.

Marantz NR1711 7.2-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver

The Marantz NR1711 is a top-of-the-line model, but it couldn't be found on Amazon, indicating it may not be widely available or updated.

Denon AVR-X4800 and Denon AVR-X6700

Denon continues to support legacy analog retrofits on some of its latest models, providing the necessary component and composite video inputs along with an MM phono preamp. Here's a look at the Denon AVR-X4800 and AVR-X6700:

Denon AVR-X4800

Component - Yes Composite video - Yes Turntable MM Phono - Yes Tape Deck with direct support for analogue REC OUT - No. However, Zone 2 Out can be used to provide a recordable Line Level analogue signal. Set the menu to a fixed level output.

The Denon AVR-X4800 offers a good balance of modern and legacy support, but the lack of a direct support for analogue tape outputs needs a workaround through the Zone 2 Out feature.

Denon AVR-X6700

Similar to the AVR-X4800, the AVR-X6700 also provides the necessary legacy analog inputs but lacks direct support for analogue tape outputs. The Zone 2 or Zone 3 Out can be used as an alternative to provide a recordable Line Level analogue signal by setting the menu to a fixed level output.

Marantz Cinema 40

Component - Yes Composite video - Yes Turntable MM Phono - Yes Tape Deck with direct support for analogue REC OUT - No. However, Zone 2 or Zone 3 Out can be used to provide a recordable Line Level analogue signal. Set the menu to a fixed level output.

The Marantz Cinema 40 offers slightly less user-friendly options for connecting tape decks, but still retains the primary legacy ports necessary for integration.

Yamaha RXA-6A

The Yamaha RXA-6A also supports legacy analog connectors, ensuring a comprehensive legacy system integration.

General Notes on Legacy Inputs and Modern Integration

When integrating legacy audio/video sources into your modern AV setup, you may need to consider several factors. The lack of composite and component video inputs can be mitigated using signal converters to HDMI. An external phono preamp can solve the lack of a direct phono input on most modern AV receivers, often offering better performance than the internal Moving Magnet phono preamps found in some models.

A set of TAPE IN and REC OUT sockets is a feature that has been largely abandoned by AV receivers. Using Zone 2 or Zone 3 Out as an alternative can be quite useful, but it relies on the ability to set the level to Fixed rather than Variable. Some AV receivers will decode digital sources via their internal DACs for Zone 2 use when the source is being used in the main zone as well.

By carefully selecting the appropriate AV receiver and using these workarounds, you can integrate your cherished vintage equipment into a modern home theater system, preserving the legacy of yesteryear while enjoying the latest in entertainment technology.